GUMI: National record-holder Avinash Sable etched his name into Indian athletics history on Thursday, securing a momentous gold medal in the men’s 3000m steeplechase at the Asian Athletics Championships. With a season’s best performance of 8:20.92s, Sable became the first Indian man in 36 years to claim the top spot in this demanding event at the continental showpiece.
The 30-year-old, already a reigning Asian Games champion and a two-time Olympian, displayed remarkable grit and strategic prowess. While Japan’s Yutaro Niinae initially led the race, Sable unleashed a powerful kick in the final lap, surging past his competitor to comfortably claim victory. Niinae finished with a silver in 8:24.41s, followed by Qatar’s Zakaria Elahlaami who took bronze with a personal best of 8:27.12s.
Also Read: PM Modi Hails Sikkim As a Model of Development
This historic win marks a significant milestone for Indian athletics, as the last time an Indian male won gold in the 3000m steeplechase at the Asian Championships was in 1989, when Dina Ram achieved the feat. Harbel Singh was the first Indian to win gold in 1975.
Sable’s triumph in Gumi further solidifies his position as India’s premier long-distance runner. Though his time was short of his national record of 8:09.91s, set earlier in 2024, his dominance in the field underscored his class and preparedness for upcoming major events. This gold medal, his second at the Asian Championships after a silver in 2019, adds another glittering achievement to his impressive career.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates
Click Here for Chhattisgarh News
Click Here for Entertainment News